The $6.99 Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Colors are, in a word, VIBRANT, and almost all of the colors go on fully opaque with a single layer, but despite what their name suggests, I didn’t find them to be particularly matte. I’d describe them as more satin, with some of them even appearing a bit glossy.
Also, they never quite completely dry down, and they aren’t nearly as transfer resistant as the liquid lipsticks by Kat Von D, ColourPop or Sephora.
That being said, they aren’t as drying either, so that’s a tradeoff.
I do love the color range and how comfortable they are, but I don’t love the incredibly strong scent or how easily they smudge and transfer. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, be very careful about these. Upon application, there’s a strong powdery floral scent (possibly freesia?) that’s still noticeable after 20 minutes (though less so). I also feel a bit of a tingle on my lips right after I apply them, but I’m not sure if it’s just a reaction to the scent or due to an actual ingredient.
It’s not painful, and it doesn’t make my lips red or swollen or anything like that, but it’s something I feel I should note.
Overall, if you’re looking for intense pigmentation in a comfortable, affordable liquid lipstick, these are worth checking out; however, if you’re looking for something long lasting (or you’re sensitive to fragrances!), you may be disappointed.
Here are first impressions and swatches of the first five shades (the nudes and pinks) — Nude Thrill, Nude Flesh, Pink Charge, Electric Pink and Berry Boost.
Nude Thrill.
This one is very much my kind of nude lipstick. It goes on smoothly and opaque, even with one layer. The color really reminds me of Maybelline’s Truffle Tease.
Nude Flesh.
As you can see from the swatches, Nude Flesh looks similar to Nude Thrill, only with more pink. On my lips, the difference is more noticeable.
I think they’re both great nudes, and I can see myself wearing either one daily.